Bail Bonds For Sex Crimes In Arizona: What You Need To Know

How Experienced Sex Crime Lawyers In Arizona Can Protect Your Rights & Freedom

When you’ve been arrested for sex crime allegations in Arizona, it can be life-altering. The trial process can take a significant amount of time. For many, the most important concern after an arrest is whether or not they’ll be able to gain their freedom while the case progresses. 

Freedom is an important concern, especially when facing such serious charges. At VS Criminal Defense Attorneys we understand these situations and are committed to providing the best legal representation to ensure your rights and freedoms are protected every step of the way.

Understanding Bail In Sex Crime Cases In Arizona

The state of Arizona takes sex crime allegations seriously, punishing them with severity. Setting bail amounts is no exception. The court determines the amount of bail based on each individual case and certain factors that were involved including:

• The nature and seriousness of the offense
• The defendant’s prior criminal history
• If the offense is a repeat
• The potential threat to the community
• If there were multiple victims
• The risk of flight before trial

It’s important to note that generally, sex crimes will be given higher bail amounts than other criminal offenses. The Arizona criminal justice system does this because sex crimes tend to be much more serious than other offenses. 

Typical Bail Amounts For Common Sex Crime Charges In Arizona

Bail amounts vary depending on each individual scenario and whether or not the sex crime was against an adult or a minor. However, there are some general amounts that your VS Criminal Defense attorney can help you determine, although even these amounts can be higher if the circumstances are serious enough.

Adult Victim Cases

• Sexual Assault (A.R.S. § 13-1406): Bail can range from $50,000 to $150,000.
• Sexual Abuse (A.R.S. § 13-1404): Bail is generally between $25,000 to $75,000.
• Voyeurism (A.R.S. § 13-1424): Bail usually ranges from $10,000 to $50,000.
• Indecent Exposure (A.R.S. § 13-1402): Bail may be set between $5,000 and $25,000.

Charges Involving Minors

Bail amounts significantly increase when allegations involve children:

• Sexual Assault of a Minor: Because this allegation is so serious and impacts such a vulnerable age, bail can range from $150,000 to $500,000 or even up to $1,000,000. Additionally, in some cases, the defendant will not be allowed to be released from jail.
• Dangerous Crimes Against Children (DCAC) (A.R.S. § 13-705): DCAC allegations can cause a steep increase in bail amounts, often starting at $100,000 and reaching $500,000 or more!
• Child Molestation (A.R.S. § 13-1410): Bail can be set at $100,000 and could be as high as $250,000 or more depending on the case.
• Sexual Conduct with a Minor (A.R.S. § 13-1405): Bail could be expected to be set between $100,000 and $250,000 or more.
• Child Sex Trafficking (A.R.S. § 13-3212): These extremely serious charges often result in bail amounts of $250,000 or higher, and in some cases, bail may be denied altogether.

What Is a No-Bond Hold For Sex Crime Cases

There are some sex crime allegations that can result in a denial of freedom altogether. This is called a “no-bond” hold which means bail will not be set and you will be required to remain in custody for the remainder of the trial process or until a bail hearing is held.

A “no-bond” hold is set when the circumstances of a case are especially serious. Instances in which this may occur include:

• The offense is classified as a violent sexual assault
• There’s substantial evidence supporting the charges
• The case involves child victims
• The defendant has prior sex offense convictions

Factors That May Affect Your Bail Amount

There are several factors that influence the amount set for your bail. Your VS Criminal Defense attorney can help you understand what factors play into your specific case to determine how hefty the amount will be. Some of the factors they will look into include:

• Criminal History: Prior convictions, especially if they are sex crime related can raise the bail amount. If you are a repeat sex crimes offender, you may not be allowed bail and if it is your first offense, the bail may be lower.
• Relationship to Alleged Victim: Allegations involving positions of trust often result in higher bail.
• Severity of the Crime: If the crime involved minors, those that are vulnerable, use of force or violence, the bail is typically higher. 
• Flight Risk Factors: If the defendant has a strong tie to the community such as a solid job, house, or family, bail might be less because they are less likely to skip trial. Wealthy individuals or those with ties to another country may be considered higher risk with a higher bail set.
• Evidence Strength: If there is a lot of solid evidence against the defendant making the case against them strong, the bail amount might be set higher or even be given a “no-bond” hold. 

Working With An Experienced Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Legal representation that is skilled and knowledgeable about sex crimes in Arizona can make a huge difference at your bail hearing. AtVS Criminal Defense Attorneys, we:

• Prepare thorough and convincing arguments for a fair bail
• Present different factors with evidence that the court can consider
• Arrange for pre-trial release conditions that may satisfy the court’s concerns
• Navigate the complex requirements for bail modifications as necessary  

Not only can hiring an attorney help protect your rights and freedoms, but many judges see that private counsel has been hired and may see this as a good sign. It indicates that you desire to be defended and are more likely to stick around. Hire our legal representation at VS Criminal Defense to attend your initial arraignment and potentially make a significant difference in how your case is handled and what freedoms you are awarded. 

Conditions For Release On Bail In Sex Crime Cases

If you have been granted bail, you are not entirely off the hook. You will be expected to follow some strict conditions. If these conditions are not met, it could result in revocation of your bail. The conditions can include:

• GPS monitoring
• Curfews
• No-contact orders with the alleged victim and their family members
• Strict prohibition on contact with any minors (especially in cases involving allegations of child sex crimes)
• Restrictions on internet usage
• Regular check-ins with pre-trial services
• Surrender of passport or travel restrictions
• Prohibition on possession of weapons

The no-contact conditions are especially strict in sex crime cases. If the allegation involves a minor, most likely there will be no contact allowed whatsoever with the victim, even if they are a family member. These conditions can impact living arrangements and other family situations while the case is in process, causing some significant challenges. 

Taking Immediate Action

If you or someone you know has been arrested for a sex crime in Arizona, get in contact with a legal representative immediately. The initial bail hearing often happens within 24 hours of an arrest so there is very little time to create strong arguments for a positive outcome. 

Contact Our Experienced Sex Crime Lawyers In Arizona Today

At VS Criminal Defense Attorneys, defending those accused of a sex crime is what we do. Because we specialize in this area as sex crime lawyers, we have an in-depth understanding of the nuances of bail proceedings and can provide the representation you need during this challenging and crucial time. 

Don’t face your bail hearing or any other part of your trial alone. Contact our office immediately for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore options for securing your release while your case proceeds.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique, and bail determinations vary based on individual circumstances. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.